Scuba XOC Dive Center — Local services in Isla Cozumel

While my mother-in-law, father-in-law, and husband all have their Scuba Diving certification, my brother-in-law and I do not, but we’re very excited when we learned about the Discover Scuba Diving course. We were a little nervous at first, since we did not know what to expect. The folks at Scuba XOC were very timely emailing us back, but we did not call them until the morning of our dive. When we did call, we were very impressed with how quickly and easily Carlos answered our questions and confirmed our dive time. We took a taxi to the marina, and walked to the right side, where we had a bit of trouble finding the shop (which was on the left side), but when we called Carlos, he came out to find us and bring us back to the shop, where he introduced us to Divemaster Moi and Captain Orlando.

The three family members with their dive license signed some papers and for fitted with their equipment while my brother-in-law Jonathan and I had the chance to get to know Carlos. He explained the basic signs, mechanisms, and processes of scuba diving, stopping often to make sure we didn’t have any questions.

After a bit, he explained the practice drills we would do in the water, and how to use each piece of equipment. We then all 5 went out on the boat and he taught Jonathan and I how to get into the water by going back off of the boat. When in the water, we practiced all of the necessary drills, and after doing them correctly, we learned how to get back in the boat (how to take off the gear and get it into the boat).

Then we all went out to the first dive site, where first Jonathan, Carlos, and I got in, and then The other three. We all did mostly the same dive, but Carlos took us a little slower, pointing out cool things in the water and making sure we were comfortable and safe.

After the first dive (which was amazing and FULL of fish, lobsters, crabs, rays, etc.) we got back in the boat, which had been following us, and we went to a dock where we ate fresh watermelon and mangos and drank cold water bottles. We also had a very nice clean bathroom up on land that we used.

After about 30 minutes, we went back out to a second reef for a second dive. It was more beautiful than the first! I will absolutely be looking to get my certification back in the states.

The effort that we has to use while diving with the Discover Scuba was very minimal. The instructor helped us the whole time, and we honestly didn’t even need to know how to swim to go diving (although I’m sure it helps). Being able to listen to the instructor and being in good health is all it takes!

Would definitely recommend this place for anyone planning to go diving in Cancun, or honestly, in Mexico at all. We couldn’t have had a better time, and it was a great price! We will have those memories forever! Plus, Carlos took photos on an underwater camera and sent them to us after for free! This is a must-do for anyone in the area that enjoys the water and the amazing...

Cruise ship dive excursions are very rushed with too many divers, it's organized confusion. Because of this I often book dives on my own. After doing some research, I settled upon Scuba XOC Dive Center. Carlos was the point of contact, he understood the time restraints of being on a cruise ship and together we came up with a dive plan. Because I wanted to get in the maximum amount of dives, I opted for a private charter. Carlos was excellent at answering my questions and accommodating my requests.

At the last minute I had requested a videographer/photographer to accompany me and Carlos made it happen. The day finally arrives and I finally meet Carlos and the crew. Everyone was so warm and friendly. Upon arriving, they took my gear and set it up for me. Before we left the dock, I had a safety brief and then Alan the Divemaster gave me a brief on the sites we were going to and we reviewed hand signals and general protocols on exit and entry to the boat. Afterwards the videographer gave me an overview of what he was going to do.

We reached our dive site and away we go. I had 3 dives that day, the first one we explored the reefs and passthroughs, the second dive was a mild drift dive, we just let the current carry us. The 3rd dive we focused on the wildlife on the reefs. The reefs are just beautiful, colorful and vibrant, visibility was virtually unlimited. I was very fortunate to have seen eagle rays on all three dives, I was told I was very fortunate because it was the start of their migration and they normal do appear this early. The videographer swam like crazy to get videos of these majestic creatures.

Well all good things must end, I hated that my dives were over but I had to get back to the ship. Upon returning they helped me with my gear and helped me rinse everything off. Once I was cleaned up and packed, we chatted for a bit then they took me to where the taxis are and away I went back to the cruise port.

A few days later my video was finished and I downloaded it! The camera work and production was grade A professional and I was so glad I decided to get it. Use their video services, I promise you will not be disappointed.

I enjoyed my time with them so much and the diving was so good that I have already talked to them about returning but this time I'm going to fly in and spend a week with them! Overall I had the most excellent time and am counting down the time to return!

In terms of logistics for cruise passengers, a taxi ride from the pier to the shop is about 10 minutes and it cost around $10. At the pier you pass through a series of shops which have some good items and souvenirs. Wait until you return to...

Choosing Scuba XOC in Cozumel for our diving experience turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. As a father leading my three sons into the open water for the first time, it wasn’t just about the dive but ensuring they were in the safest and most capable hands. With Carlos and his team, we got that and so much more.

To begin, Carlos and his entire team are Cozumel natives. This isn't just a business for them, it's a showcase of their home, their heritage. They exude a profound respect and knowledge of the waters and marine life around Cozumel. This authenticity transformed our experience from a mere dive to a journey into the heart of Cozumel's underwater world.

For beginners like my middle son, the individual attention from Victor ensured a comprehensive and safe introduction to diving. By the third day, he was diving confidently alongside his brothers, a testament to Victor's meticulous training.

Alan, our dive master, was another gem. His keen awareness of every diver's comfort and safety, combined with his innate knowledge of Cozumel’s marine landscape, made our dives enjoyable and secure. Our jovial boat captain, Orlando or "Captain Kung Fu Panda," added layers of fun and expertise to our sea voyage.

We were fortunate to dive a rich tapestry of sites:

Paradise Reef: An ideal starting point, with its proximity and a kaleidoscope of marine life. The baby nurse shark sighting here was a delightful bonus. Palancar Reef: This site unfolded like an underwater epic, with its vast coral edifices and winding swim-throughs. Its natural architecture left us in awe.

Yucab: Vibrant and full of life, our dive here was marked by our close encounter with a juvenile nurse shark, amidst a bustling marine backdrop. Santa Rosa Wall: The sheer magnitude of this wall, with its depth plunging into the abyss, was a breathtaking sight. Swimming along its expansive facade, teeming with marine life, was both humbling and exhilarating.

Carlos, beyond being a business owner, was our gateway to the stories and secrets of Cozumel's underwater treasures. His narratives, peppered with local lore and ecological insights, enriched our understanding of each dive site. The fact that Scuba XOC is helmed by locals with such intimate knowledge underscores their claim as the most knowledgeable dive shop in Cozumel.

In conclusion, Scuba XOC is more than just a dive shop; it’s an immersive experience into Cozumel's underwater culture, led by those who call it home. For families or solo adventurers, their blend of authenticity, expertise, and local wisdom makes them the premier choice for...